Maximising solar energy (and cost savings) with effective battery storage

by Duncan Crosthwaite | Jan 20, 2025

Lots of customers are opting to install solar photovoltaic (PV) systems to their homes to lower their long-term energy bills and become more environmentally self-sustaining. With many options available to customers, it can be tricky to navigate the options out there and decide what’s right for you.

In this article we’ll explore the importance of battery storage, and why it’s key to unlocking bigger savings and maximising the renewable energy available to you.

The difference between Solar PV and battery storage

If you install Solar PV into your home, without battery storage, you’ll only be able to use the energy you generate immediately, because – put simply – there’s nowhere for you to store the energy you generate.

If you install a battery storage system alongside your Solar PV, you’ll be able to store the energy you generate and use it at a time that suits you. This is especially important for the Scottish climate, where we have long nights for half of the year, and don’t always have an abundance of sunshine.

The benefits of combining battery storage and Solar PV systems

By choosing to integrate battery storage with your Solar PV, you will unlock a number of additional benefits – both financial and environmental:

Energy independence: By storing the excess solar-generated electricity in battery storage systems, you can reduce your reliance on the grid, providing you with a greater degree of energy independence and resilience in the face of power outages or disruptions.

Maximise your use of solar energy: Battery storage enables you to obtain the full value of your solar-generated electricity by storing and utilising solar energy during times of low sunlight or peak energy demand. This reduces the amount of grid electricity consumed and lowers your energy bills.

Reduce your carbon footprint: The combined use of Solar PV systems and battery storage results in lower greenhouse gas emissions and a reduced carbon footprint, making a positive contribution to climate change mitigation and a greener environment.

Lower energy bills: Storing solar-generated electricity in battery storage systems allows you to utilise clean energy efficiently, reducing your need to purchase and consume grid electricity. This results in lower energy bills, creating substantial, long-term savings.

Feed-in tariffs and the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG): If you generate more solar electricity than you can consume or store, you can actually sell the excess electricity back to the grid. In the UK, this can be done through the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) scheme, which provides financial reward for the excess solar energy exported.

Investment payback period: Although the initial investment in a combined solar PV and battery storage system can seem substantial, the cost savings can offset the investment over time. In many cases, homeowners and businesses can recover their investment in just a few years.

Choosing the right battery storage system

With so many different types of battery and complex terminology to deal with – finding the right system for you, can seem daunting. Pay attention to these three key factors and seek advice from experts – like the team at Ceiba renewables – to choose the right one for you. If you want to know more about selecting a battery system, you can read our blog on the topic – written by our inhouse battery storage experts.

Battery type: The two main types of battery storage solutions are lithium-ion and lead-acid batteries. Lithium-ion batteries offer a longer lifespan, better performance and efficiency, and are lighter weight, making them the preferred choice for most solar PV system applications.

Battery capacity: The capacity of your battery storage system should align with your energy consumption patterns, solar PV system size, and the amount of excess solar energy you expect to generate.

System compatibility: It’s essential to ensure that your chosen battery storage system is compatible with your solar PV system’s components. You can find this out by consulting with an expert in renewable energy, like Ceiba Renewables, to ensure a seamless and efficient integration.

At Ceiba Renewables we truly care about promoting renewable energy solutions that deliver significant savings on energy expenses, empowering homeowners and businesses to transition to a cleaner, more efficient energy future. If you’re in the market for Solar PV, for your home, partner with Ceiba Renewables for expert guidance, design, consultancy, project management, and installation of your integrated battery storage and solar PV system. We’ll provide you with the expertise and the confidence to invest in a sustainable and game-changing energy solution. Get in touch with our team to have a conversation.

Choosing the right battery storage system for you – all you need to know

by Duncan Crosthwaite | Jan 20, 2025

Energy storage is a hot topic these days, especially in Scotland where the push for renewable energy is stronger than ever. But let’s face it, the world of energy storage can be a bit intimidating. There’s a lot to consider: What kind of storage system do you need? What’s the best choice for your home or business?

Whether you’re a homeowner looking to reduce your carbon footprint or a business owner aiming to make your operations more sustainable, this guide will provide the insights you need to make an informed decision.

What is a battery storage system, in a renewable energy setting?

To put it simply, a battery storage system is a device that allows renewable technologies (like Solar PV or wind turbines, to name but a few) to store the energy they create, so that it can be used at a time that’s most useful.

Without a battery storage system, the energy that’s generated would have to be used right away, whether it was needed or not.

Customers who are looking to integrate battery storage into their Solar PV system, will find they unlock a number of benefits, like uninterrupted power supply, increased independence from the grid, and lower energy bills. You can find out more about the benefits of battery storage and Solar PV in our dedicated blog.

How to Choose the Best Battery Storage System

There are several types of battery storage systems available, and choosing the right one for your needs can be a complex task. The most popular battery storage technologies include:

Lithium-ion batteries: Currently the most common and widely used battery storage technology, lithium-ion batteries boast a high energy density, long cycle life, and operate very efficiently. They are well-suited to residential and commercial installations due to their compact size, lightweight structure, and low maintenance requirements.

Lead acid batteries: A tried-and-tested technology, lead-acid batteries provide cost-effective energy storage solutions. However, they have a lower energy density, shorter cycle life, and require regular maintenance compared to lithium-ion batteries – which makes them a less popular choice with consumers.

Flow batteries: Flow batteries employ a unique, liquid-based energy storage method, that makes them a scalable and long-lasting energy storage option. Although typically associated with larger installations, flow batteries are increasingly being explored for residential uses.

When choosing a battery storage technology, consider factors such as space, maintenance requirements, efficiency, and budget to ensure an ideal fit for your home or business in Scotland.

Understanding the lingo

When choosing the right battery storage solution for you, you might hear a number of terms mentioned. The ones to pay attention to, are listed below:

Capacity: The capacity, measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh), signifies the amount of energy that can be stored in the battery. You need to make sure that your chosen battery storage system has sufficient capacity to cater to your energy needs during times when solar generation is low. The best way to figure this out – is to speak to an expert – like the Ceiba Renewables team.

Depth of Discharge (DoD): DoD refers to the percentage of the battery’s total capacity that can be discharged before it requires recharging. Higher DoD values allow you to use more of the stored energy, increasing your battery’s effectiveness and extending its lifespan. A rough rule of thumb is, the higher the DoD, the better.

Round-trip efficiency: Assess the battery’s round-trip efficiency, which indicates the percentage of energy retained during the charge and discharge process. Higher efficiency values result in more stored energy available for use.

As well as assessing a battery’s performance against each of these metrics, you also need to find one that works for your budget. Remember that as well as the cost of the battery system, you’ll also have installation, permit, and warranty costs. When speaking to customers we often calculate the cost per kilowatt-hour (kWh) for each system, which gives customers an idea of the savings available, against the cost for implementing each system. With our help, we’ll find the right one to suit your needs, that’s financially manageable for you too.

Batter storage systems really are the key to making the most of your renewable technology. And if you’re considering Solar PV – battery storage will give you higher cost savings and better energy use. We’re here to help you navigate the complexities of battery storage systems in Scotland, ensuring seamless integration into your renewable energy setup. Get in touch with Ceiba Renewables today to learn more about our battery storage solutions – it all starts with a conversation, one that we’re more than happy to have.

Understanding the DNO and G99 Applications for Tesla Powerwall 3

by Duncan Crosthwaite | Oct 18, 2024

When installing a Tesla Powerwall 3 alongside a solar PV system, working with your local Distribution Network Operator (DNO) is essential. The DNO ensures your system complies with grid regulations, which can influence your battery settings and export limits. In Scotland, for example, the DNOs are SSE and Scottish Power. Below is an easy-to-follow guide on how DNO regulations like G98 and G99 may affect your installation.

Image 1: Electricity distribution operators

What is the G98 Regulation?

The G98 regulation allows you to connect systems with an output of up to 3.68kW (equal to 16 amps) to the grid without prior approval or fees. This limit applies to both your solar panels and battery system combined, making it a simple and cost-effective option for smaller installations, combatting climate change.

Why Does the G99 Regulation Matter?

If your solar panels and battery system together exceed 3.68kW, you’ll fall under the more complex G99 regulation. Even if your Tesla Powerwall 3 doesn’t export energy to the grid, the DNO considers it part of your generation system. For instance, if you have both a solar PV array and an AC-coupled battery system, the combined power could push you into G99 territory, requiring approval.

Power During an Outage: The Role of “Islanding”

One key feature of the Tesla Powerwall 3 is its ability to keep your home powered during an outage, known as “islanding.” However, if your Powerwall is capable of islanding, your system automatically requires a G99 application, even if your system doesn’t exceed the 3.68kW limit.

How G99 Applications Work

A G99 application is required for any system that outputs more than 3.68kW per phase to the grid. Note that this applies to the continuous output from your battery (on the AC side), not the capacity of your solar panels or battery storage. The DNO can take up to 45 working days (around 3 months) to process your G99 application and provide an Offer Letter, detailing any associated costs. Sometimes, there are no fees, but additional costs such as admin fees, testing fees, or even network upgrades may be required.

Understanding DNO Costs

DNOs interpret regulations differently, meaning costs can vary widely. Some applications are approved without any fees, while others may involve significant costs. This makes it difficult to predict the exact charges in advance. Thankfully, experienced installers like Ceiba Renewables often have good relationships with DNOs, which can help streamline the process and reduce costs, especially for witness testing.

What If G99 Costs Are Too High?

If the G99 Offer Letter is too expensive, there’s an alternative: designing the system with Export Limitation. This limits the output of your solar PV and Powerwall to 3.68kW each, which can sometimes avoid the G99 fees altogether.

The G99 Fast-Track Process

Some DNOs offer a G99 Fast-Track option for systems where both the battery and solar PV are capped at 3.68kW. This fast-track process has no fees and a quicker approval time, but its availability can vary. Crucially, the Fast-Track is not available for batteries that work during power cuts.

Choose the Right Output Setting for Tesla Powerwall 3

Option 1: Apply for the Full 11.04kW Output

One approach is to apply for the total 11.04kW output and see what the DNO says. While the DNO may impose fees or require a longer approval process, applying for the maximum output ensures that you future-proof your system for potential upgrades or increased energy needs. If approved, you can take full advantage of your Powerwall 3’s capabilities and maximize energy storage and output, especially in scenarios like energy trading or high-load usage.

Option 2: Size the Powerwall Output Based on Your Solar PV

Another strategy is to size the Tesla Powerwall 3’s output to match your solar PV output, which could make the approval process smoother and quicker. For instance, if your solar system produces around 7kW, you might choose a 7kW output setting for the Powerwall. This aligns the battery’s output with your solar generation, preventing unnecessary energy clipping and ensuring optimal energy use.

This option can also help avoid costly fees or lengthy approval processes, as the DNO may find it easier to approve a system sized to balance with the solar generation rather than maxing out at the 11.04kW setting.

Considering Solar Panel Orientation

Image 2: Best direction for Solar Panels

The orientation of your solar panels plays a key role in determining the ideal output setting. For example, if your solar panels are spread across different roof angles, the peak output might be lower than the total kWp of your system. Matching the Powerwall 3’s output to the actual power your panels are capable of generating (up to 11.04kW) ensures the system operates efficiently without overloading the grid.

Comparing Discharge and Charge Rates

With multiple output options, it’s also important to consider the impact on discharge and charge rates. For example, if your battery discharges at 11.04kW, a fully charged 13.5kWh battery will last for around 1.2 hours under heavy load (13.5kWh / 11.04kW). In contrast, a 3.68kW setting would last approximately 3.66 hours under the same conditions, offering greater endurance but slower power delivery.

Choosing the right setting depends on how you intend to use the Powerwall. If fast charging during off-peak times is a priority, higher output settings like 10kW or 11.04kW could be advantageous. However, if you’re more concerned with extending battery life during power outages, a lower setting like 3.68kW or 5kW may be more suitable.

Which Setting is Best for You?

Ultimately, the right output setting for your Tesla Powerwall 3 depends on your unique circumstances. If you have a solar system that generates 4.5kW or more, applying for the 11.04kW setting may give you the flexibility to maximize energy usage. However, if you’re concerned about DNO approval times or fees, sizing the output to your solar PV generation (for example, 6kW or 7kW) may result in faster approval and fewer complications.

As always, you can work with your installer to adjust your settings if needed, and you can even reapply with different settings based on the feedback from the DNO.

What Are the Top Design Highlights of Tesla Powerwall 3?

by Duncan Crosthwaite | Sep 16, 2024

At Ceiba Renewables, we’re excited to introduce the Tesla Powerwall 3 — a next-generation battery that not only eliminates rare earth metals but offers remarkable flexibility with its programmable inverter. This feature helps us navigate the unknowns of the G99 application process required by the Distribution Network Operator (DNO) when installing Powerwalls, ensuring your home can safely integrate with your home and disconnect from the grid during outages.

The Powerwall 3 charges at 5kW but can output up to 11.04kW to power your home from solar energy or export to the grid (subject to DNO approval). These capabilities optimise energy use, reduce grid dependency, and offer savings.

In this post, we’ll break down key design considerations to help you understand how the Powerwall’s settings work together to maximise your system’s efficiency.

Key Tesla Powerwall 3 Components

Solar PV kWp Rating

The kilowatt-peak (kWp) rating measures your solar panels’ maximum output under optimal conditions. A 6kWp solar system, for example, can produce up to 6kW in peak sunlight, helping meet your household power needs and storing excess energy.

Maxeon Home Solar Power System residential pv

Image: New Maxeon Home Solar Power System

G99 Setting: Battery Output to the House

The G99 setting determines how much power the Powerwall can send to your home & the grid. The Powerwall 3 can supply up to 11.04kW, but this will require approval from your DNO. Once the DNO have assessed the application, the output might need to be limited to 3.68kW, 5kW, 6kW, 7, 8, 9, 10 or 11.04kW to comply with DNO requirements.

G100 Export Limit Setting

The G100 limit governs how much excess energy can be exported back to the grid. Depending on local grid rules, this limit may be set at 3.68kW but could go as high as 11.04kW with DNO approval. Any solar energy produced beyond this limit is “clipped,” meaning it’s neither used nor exported.

Image: G100-2 Certified Badge

Battery Charge Rate

The Powerwall 3 charges at a rate of 5kW, allowing it to efficiently store energy from solar panels or the grid for later use.

Real-World Example: Gerry’s Setup

Let’s take Gerry as an example:

Solar PV Setup: 13.2kWp solar panels (10kW West-facing, 3.2kW South-facing).
Powerwall 3: Storing excess solar energy.
G100 Export Limit: 3.68kW.

solar panel installation planned design 13.2kWp

Image: Gerry’s Solar System

On a sunny day, his panels might produce up to 13kW. The Powerwall charges at 5kW, leaving 8kW for household use or export. If Gerry’s home only uses 1kW at the time, 7kW is available for export, but due to the 3.68kW export limit, 3.32kW will be clipped.

Clipping: What It Means for Your System

Clipping happens when your system produces more solar power than can be used in the home and exported. In Gerry’s case, 3.32kW was clipped. Although this might sound like a loss, it only occurs during peak production meanwhile in lower light conditions the PV system can produce more power than a lower output system. Homeowners can also offset clipping by using excess energy for high-demand activities like charging an electric vehicle (EV). The Tesla Wall Charger and Zappi EV Chargers are ideal for this!

Future-Proofing Your Tesla Powerwall 3 Setup

To prepare for future energy needs:

Cable Sizing: Use the right cables (e.g., 16mm² for an 11.04kW output) to handle future Powerwall upgrades.
G99 Applications: To unlock the full 11.04kW output, you’ll need DNO approval. This process can take time and isn’t always guaranteed, but it can enhance your system’s flexibility and potential for financial returns, especially with energy trading.

Key Takeaways

When designing your Tesla Powerwall 3 system:

Lower output settings ensure regulatory compliance but may limit energy use and exports.
Higher solar PV ratings generate more energy but could lead to clipping during peak production.
Your system’s settings will depend on your energy needs, local DNO requirements, and future goals.

Choosing the 11.04kW output option may require extra time for DNO approval, and we may need to resubmit applications if approval is denied.

Next Steps

We’ll tailor your Tesla Powerwall 3 system based on your specific needs and DNO limitations. Here’s an example of how your settings might look:

Setting	Example Value
Solar PV Rating (kWp)	13.2kW
Battery Output (G99)	11.04kW
Export Limit (G100)	3.68kW
Battery Charge Rate	5kW

Feel free to reach out with any questions or to learn more about optimising your Tesla Powerwall 3 system!

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A Practical Guide to Solar PV and Battery Storage for Agricultural Businesses

by Duncan Crosthwaite | Mar 24, 2024

The agricultural industry possesses enormous potential for harnessing the power of solar photovoltaic (PV) and battery storage systems. By tapping into this clean and renewable energy source, agricultural businesses can significantly reduce their energy overheads and maintain a competitive edge in a rapidly evolving market. Additionally, adopting solar PV and battery storage systems contributes to environmental sustainability, an essential aspect of modern farming practices in the face of climate change and shifting consumer preferences.

In this comprehensive article, we will provide a practical guide to implementing solar PV and battery storage systems in agricultural businesses. Geared towards farm owners and managers, this guide will explore essential aspects of solar PV and battery storage applications in agriculture, including system sizing, design considerations, and regulatory requirements. Furthermore, we will delve into the financial benefits, environmental advantages, and practical use cases specific to the agricultural industry.

With big expenses such as equipment, labour, and fertiliser, the bottom line in agriculture matters. As energy costs continue to rise, implementing solar PV and battery storage systems presents an enticing opportunity for farmers to cut energy expenses while promoting environmental stewardship. From powering essential farm infrastructure like irrigation systems, greenhouses, and milking facilities to providing lighting and electricity for remote locations, solar PV and battery storage systems are versatile and adaptable to various agricultural settings.

Determining System Size and Key Design Considerations

In order to maximise the benefits of solar PV and battery storage systems for your agricultural business, it is important to carefully assess your energy needs and consider several key design factors:

Energy Consumption Evaluation: Analyse your farm’s historical energy consumption, peak demand periods, and projected growth to help determine the optimal size and capacity for your solar PV and battery storage system. A tailored approach ensures that your system is both cost-effective and suited to your specific requirements.
Site Selection and Assessment: Choose appropriate locations for both the solar PV panels and battery storage units by consulting with professionals. Factors to consider include proper orientation, potential shading, and existing farm infrastructure. Additionally, assess the structural integrity of rooftops for solar PV installations and ensure there is adequate ventilation for battery storage units.
Regulatory Compliance: Be aware of any relevant regulations and requirements governing the installation of solar PV and battery storage systems on agricultural properties. This may involve obtaining necessary permits, adhering to zoning restrictions, and meeting health and safety standards.

Financial Benefits and Incentives for Solar PV and Battery Storage in Agriculture

Investing in solar PV and battery storage systems can bring significant financial benefits to your agricultural business, including energy cost savings and various government incentives:

Reduced Energy Overheads: By generating and storing your own solar energy, your farm can cut electricity expenses, leading to long-term operational cost savings. This is particularly beneficial for energy-intensive agricultural operations like dairy farming, poultry production, or horticulture.
Grid Independence and Energy Security: By utilising battery storage systems, your farm can reduce its reliance on the grid and insulate itself from volatile energy prices. Moreover, energy stored in batteries can act as a backup power supply during grid outages, ensuring farm operations run smoothly.
Government Incentives: Agricultural businesses should take advantage of available government schemes and incentives that encourage the adoption of renewable energy solutions like solar PV and battery storage. These incentives can offset installation costs and promote the generation and storage of renewable energy.

Environmental Advantages and Sustainability in Agriculture

Investing in solar PV and battery storage systems can greatly contribute to environmental sustainability and responsible farming practices:

Lower Carbon Footprint: Solar PV systems generate electricity without producing greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to a reduction in your farm’s carbon footprint. By choosing a renewable energy source, your business can actively support efforts to mitigate climate change.
Eco-Friendly Branding: Customers and supply-chain partners are becoming increasingly conscientious about environmental sustainability. By adopting renewable energy solutions, your farm can appeal to environmentally-conscious stakeholders, differentiating itself in the marketplace as a sustainable and responsible business.
Land Preservation: Solar PV systems can be integrated into existing farm structures, such as rooftops or even mounted on agricultural land in a way that preserves soil fertility. This dual-purpose approach allows farms to utilise their land efficiently while minimising environmental impact.

Practical Use Cases for Solar PV and Battery Storage in Agriculture

Solar PV and battery storage systems can be effectively implemented in a variety of agricultural settings and operations:

Irrigation and Pumping Systems: Solar PV systems can power electric pumps for irrigation systems, ensuring consistent water supply and reducing reliance on diesel-powered generators. Battery storage systems can store excess solar energy for later use, enabling operation during evening hours or periods of cloud cover.
Greenhouses: Solar PV and battery storage can supply electricity for heating, ventilation, and artificial lighting systems within greenhouses. This allows for improved energy efficiency, reduced operational costs, and a more sustainable agricultural environment.
Livestock Facilities: From milking equipment to temperature control and lighting, solar PV and battery storage systems can help power energy-intensive livestock facilities. By powering these operations with clean energy, farms can enhance both animal welfare and environmental sustainability.
Remote Locations: Farms often have remote locations that require electricity for security systems, lighting, or monitoring equipment. Solar PV and battery storage systems can provide an independent and reliable source of energy for these off-grid locations, eliminating the need for costly grid connections or fuel-powered generators.

Conclusion

Solar PV and battery storage systems offer agricultural businesses an excellent opportunity to reduce energy costs, enhance environmental sustainability, and improve overall operational efficiency. By carefully assessing energy needs, selecting the right system size, and considering key design factors, your agricultural business can reap the benefits of these renewable energy solutions. Ceiba Renewables is committed to supporting your farm’s transition to a more sustainable and efficient future. Contact us to tap into our expertise and experience in designing and implementing solar PV and battery storage systems tailored to your specific agricultural needs.